Subaru Forester 2014: Prices, Reviews, & More

by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Hey guys! Are you thinking about snagging a Subaru Forester 2014? You've come to the right place. Let's dive into everything you need to know about this awesome vehicle, including prices, reviews, and what makes it such a great choice. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or a first-time buyer, this guide will give you all the essential details.

The 2014 Subaru Forester marked a significant milestone in the Forester's journey, representing the second year of its fourth generation. This generation, known for its blend of practicality, safety, and off-road capability, quickly became a favorite among compact SUV enthusiasts. The 2014 model year carried forward the improvements and features introduced in 2013, offering a versatile package that catered to a wide range of drivers. From its spacious interior and comfortable ride to its standard all-wheel-drive system and available turbocharged engine, the 2014 Forester stood out as a well-rounded and capable vehicle in its class.

2014 Subaru Forester: What's the Price?

So, what's the damage to your wallet? The price of a 2014 Subaru Forester can vary quite a bit depending on a few key factors. These include the trim level, the condition of the car, mileage, and where you're located. Let's break it down:

  • Trim Level: The Forester came in several trims, including the base 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, and the turbocharged 2.0XT trims. Each trim level offers different features and equipment, which affects the price.
  • Condition: Obviously, a well-maintained Forester with a clean history will fetch a higher price than one with dents, scratches, or mechanical issues. Always get a thorough inspection!
  • Mileage: Lower mileage generally means higher prices. A Forester with fewer miles on the odometer is likely to have less wear and tear.
  • Location: Prices can fluctuate depending on your region. Demand and local market conditions play a big role.

Average Price Range

Generally, you can expect to find a 2014 Subaru Forester priced anywhere from $10,000 to $18,000. Keep in mind that these are just estimates. To get a more accurate idea, check out reputable online car marketplaces like Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and CarGurus. These sites provide valuation tools that take into account the specific details of the car you're interested in.

Tips for Getting the Best Deal

  • Do Your Research: Knowledge is power! Understand the market value of the specific trim and condition you're looking for.
  • Shop Around: Don't settle for the first one you see. Compare prices from different dealers and private sellers.
  • Negotiate: Don't be afraid to haggle. Most sellers expect some negotiation, so start with an offer lower than what you're willing to pay.
  • Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection: This is crucial! A qualified mechanic can identify any potential problems before you buy.
  • Check the Vehicle History Report: Services like Carfax and AutoCheck provide valuable information about the car's history, including accidents, title issues, and maintenance records.

Subaru Forester 2014: A Deep Dive into Reviews

Okay, so you know about the price, but what are people actually saying about the 2014 Subaru Forester? Let's take a look at some reviews to get a better sense of its pros and cons.

Overall Impressions

Most reviews of the 2014 Forester are overwhelmingly positive. Owners and critics alike praise its spacious interior, comfortable ride, excellent visibility, and standard all-wheel drive. It's considered a practical and reliable choice for families and anyone who needs a vehicle that can handle various weather conditions.

What the Experts Say

  • Kelley Blue Book (KBB): KBB reviewers highlight the Forester's strong resale value, fuel efficiency, and off-road capabilities. They also appreciate the available turbocharged engine for those seeking more power.
  • Edmunds: Edmunds praises the Forester's roomy cabin, user-friendly controls, and impressive cargo capacity. They also note that the Forester offers a good balance of comfort and handling.
  • Car and Driver: Car and Driver appreciates the Forester's practicality and versatility. They also commend the Forester's safety features and crash test ratings.

Common Praises

  • Spacious Interior: The 2014 Forester offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul gear.
  • All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all kinds of weather, giving drivers added confidence and peace of mind.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Forester achieves respectable fuel economy for its class, especially with the base 2.5-liter engine.
  • Visibility: The Forester's large windows and relatively upright seating position provide excellent visibility, making it easy to see the road around you.

Potential Drawbacks

  • Base Engine Performance: While adequate for most driving situations, some reviewers find the base 2.5-liter engine to be a bit underpowered, especially when fully loaded.
  • CVT Transmission: The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can sometimes feel a bit sluggish or unresponsive, especially during hard acceleration.
  • Interior Styling: Some reviewers find the Forester's interior styling to be a bit bland or dated compared to some of its competitors.

Key Features of the 2014 Subaru Forester

Let's talk about what makes the 2014 Subaru Forester tick. Here's a rundown of the features you'll find:

Engine Options

The 2014 Forester offers two engine choices:

  • 2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder: This engine produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. It's the standard engine on most trims and provides adequate power for everyday driving.
  • 2.0-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: This engine cranks out 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's available on the 2.0XT trims and delivers significantly more punch.

Transmission

  • Six-Speed Manual: Available on the base 2.5i trim.
  • Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Standard on all other trims. The CVT provides smooth and efficient performance but can feel a bit unresponsive at times.

Standard Features

Even the base 2014 Forester comes with a decent list of standard features, including:

  • All-wheel drive
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • A rearview camera
  • A four-speaker audio system
  • Full power accessories

Available Options

Depending on the trim level, you can find features like:

  • A panoramic sunroof
  • Leather upholstery
  • Heated front seats
  • A power liftgate
  • A navigation system
  • A premium audio system
  • Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system (which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking)

Is the 2014 Subaru Forester Reliable?

Reliability is a biggie, right? You want a car that won't leave you stranded. The 2014 Subaru Forester generally gets good marks for reliability.

Reliability Ratings

  • J.D. Power: While J.D. Power ratings can vary year to year, the Forester generally scores well in terms of reliability.
  • Consumer Reports: Consumer Reports typically recommends the Forester, citing its reliability and owner satisfaction.

Common Issues

Like any car, the 2014 Forester isn't perfect. Some owners have reported issues such as:

  • Excessive Oil Consumption: Some Foresters, particularly those with the 2.5-liter engine, have been known to consume more oil than usual. Keep an eye on the oil level and top it off as needed.
  • CVT Transmission Problems: While generally reliable, the CVT transmission can sometimes experience issues like slipping or shuddering.
  • Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported minor electrical problems, such as issues with the infotainment system or power windows.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your 2014 Forester running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Regular Oil Changes: Change the oil and filter according to the manufacturer's recommendations (or more frequently if you notice excessive oil consumption).
  • Check Fluid Levels: Regularly check and top off all fluid levels, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
  • Inspect Brakes: Have the brakes inspected regularly and replace pads and rotors as needed.
  • Rotate Tires: Rotate the tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even wear.
  • Follow the Maintenance Schedule: Stick to the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for things like spark plugs, air filters, and timing belts.

Alternatives to the 2014 Subaru Forester

Not quite sold on the 2014 Forester? Here are a few other SUVs you might want to consider:

  • Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior.
  • Honda CR-V: The CR-V offers a comfortable ride, excellent safety ratings, and a reputation for reliability.
  • Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is praised for its sporty handling, stylish design, and upscale interior.
  • Ford Escape: The Escape offers a variety of engine options and a comfortable ride.

Conclusion: Is the 2014 Subaru Forester a Good Buy?

So, is the 2014 Subaru Forester a good buy? In most cases, the answer is a resounding yes! It's a practical, reliable, and versatile SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. With its spacious interior, standard all-wheel drive, and available turbocharged engine, the Forester is a great choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions.

Just be sure to do your homework, get a pre-purchase inspection, and negotiate a fair price. Happy car hunting!